A survey from ADP Canada and Leger shows that equal pay and pay equality are still major issues for Canadian working women, who are open to finding new jobs during the pandemic.
Self-reported results from the survey show that women continue to earn 23 per cent less in total income than men. Women’s pre-tax salaries remain 21 per cent lower than men’s, while additional variable compensation, such as bonuses, profit-sharing or equity agreements, are where disparity surges, with Canadian working women earning 43 per cent less in additional compensation compared to men in 2020.

Limited options for school and childcare placed a strain on all working parents; however, data from the survey shows working mothers were more heavily impacted. Half of working mothers reported experiencing disproportionately high stress levels due to balancing childcare obligations and work throughout the pandemic, compared to 40 per cent of their male counterparts. Working women also reported a more significant impact when it comes to mental health, with 45 per cent indicating that working during the pandemic has had a negative impact on their mental health, compared to 37 per cent of men.
Natalka Haras, Legal Counsel at ADP Canada says, “During these challenging times, it is critical that Canadian organizations keep sight of gender issues and how the demands of work and home can impact groups differently.”